Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (CABE)
1 Kemble Street, London WC2
CABE, the UK government's advisory body on architecture, urban design and public space, chose a landmark London building from 1962, designed by R Seifert and Partners, for its headquarters. MoreySmith's appointment to design the interiors carried great prestige and allowed us to exercise our imagination on a challenging budget. The 1,600 sq m office includes workspace, presentation rooms and a flexible conference and function facility. CABE promotes environmental best practice, so we were pleased to specify recycled plastics and glass, and natural linoleum.
The image shows the pivoting acrylic doors open, linking the reception / café area to create a large function space.
The plan shows the challenging floorplate connecting two buildings, one circular and one rectangular. The café and reception area is on the link bridge between them, making a logical and natural connection between the two halves of the office.
A green-glass backed wall recess lined with green glass displays and stores Cabe's literature; bright orange Eames rockers counterpoint complement the cool lime green. With the pivoting doors open the extra cafe seating space can be seen behind. When they are closed, the blue acrylic casts a soft glow very close to emulating natural daylight. The acoustic ceiling rafts are made of recycled glass.